First Reading - Acts 5:17-26
Gospel - John 3:16-21
The first reading narrates how the apostles were imprisoned by the authorities for preaching about Jesus. However, an angel of the Lord intervenes, opens the prison doors, and instructs them to continue proclaiming the message of life. The apostles obey without hesitation. Even though they were threatened, even though they knew the risk, they chose the freedom of obeying God over the false security of human approval. Their action shows us that true freedom does not come from avoiding danger or seeking comfort, but from courageously standing in the light of God's truth. Their imprisonment was a human attempt to suppress the truth, but God's intervention shows that no barrier can hold back the light once it is meant to shine.
The gospel today beautifully explains why this is possible: "God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life." Jesus explains that the reason He came was not to condemn, but to save. However, salvation demands a response. We are invited to believe, to step into the light, and to live by the truth. Jesus clearly states that some people prefer darkness to light because their deeds are evil. Light exposes what is hidden, and many find that threatening. But for those who trust in God's love, stepping into the light is not terrifying but liberating. It reveals the beauty of living truthfully, humbly, and freely.
Dear friends, the common thread between the readings is simple yet profound: choosing the light of truth over the darkness of fear. The apostles, freed from prison, could have gone into hiding. Instead, they stood in the light and continued their mission. We, too, face moments when fear, comfort, or selfishness tempt us to hide from the demands of truth. But Jesus reminds us that believing in Him is not a matter of hiding or pretending but of living transparently before God, trusting His immense love.
Practically, this means we must constantly examine our hearts: are there areas where we prefer darkness — dishonesty, resentment, indifference, selfishness? Are we held captive by fear of others’ opinions, unwilling to live according to God’s ways because we fear judgment or rejection? God's Word today calls us to come out of our hidden prisons and live in the light — honestly, joyfully, and courageously.
Every small act of living in the truth builds freedom in us: speaking honestly even when it costs, loving even when it is not returned, choosing humility over pride, forgiving when we would rather seek revenge. Such steps, small as they seem, are choices for the light that transform our lives from inside out. Like the apostles, we are not alone in this journey. The Holy Spirit accompanies us, strengthens us, and opens doors we thought were impossible to open.
Let us ask God today for the courage to leave behind the darkness and live joyfully in the light of His truth, trusting that His love is stronger than all our fears.
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